Arch Pain

Book An Appointment

Causes and Treatments
Pain in the arch of the foot is a common issue, particularly among athletes. It can stem from various causes, including injuries and structural problems. Understanding these causes and knowing how to treat them can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

The Arch of the Foot
The arch runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the ball and heel. It comprises three separate arches formed by bones, ligaments, and tendons, crucial for weight-bearing, stability, and shock absorption.

Common Causes of Arch Pain

  1. Overpronation: This occurs when the foot rolls too far inward during walking or running, putting excessive pressure on the arch and leading to pain.
  2. Plantar Fasciitis: A degenerative condition of the plantar fascia ligament, causing sharp heel and arch pain, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
  3. Cavus Foot: A structural abnormality characterized by a high arch, leading to instability and pain during movement.
  4. Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD): Injury or inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon can cause pain in the arch and inner ankle.
  5. Flat Feet: While often asymptomatic, flat feet can lead to arch pain due to inadequate support.

Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of arch pain, including:

  • Aging
  • Overuse or excessive activity
  • Weight gain
  • Poor footwear choices
  • Foot Posture

Treatment Options
If home remedies such as rest, ice, and stretching are insufficient, consider professional treatments. At Podiatry Care Gawler, we offer specialised care for arch pain:

  • Shockwave Therapy
  • Footwear Education
  • Biomechanical Assessment
  • Physical Therapy
  • Orthotics
  • Medications
  • Injections

For more information or to book an appointment, contact us online or call us at 08 8522 4717.

Ball of Foot Pain

Book An Appointment

Pain in the ball of the foot, commonly known as metatarsalgia, is a prevalent concern for many, especially those involved in high-impact activities. This discomfort can arise from various structures within the foot, such as bones, joints, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. Individuals suffering from ball of foot pain often experience discomfort during activities that require pushing off, such as walking or climbing stairs. The pain may intensify with prolonged standing or during high-impact movements.

Causes
Several factors can lead to pain in the ball of the foot, including:

  • Extended Standing: Prolonged periods on your feet can increase pressure in this area.
  • High-Impact Activities: Sports like running, jumping, and lunging can place excessive strain on the foot.
  • Foot Structure Issues: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, and high arches can contribute to discomfort.
  • Improper Foot Function: Difficulty pushing off from the big toe can lead to pain.
  • Unsuitable Footwear: Shoes that are too narrow, shallow, or have high heels can exacerbate the issue.
  • Muscle Tightness or Weakness: Tight or weak calf muscles can affect how the foot functions.
  • Medical Conditions: Issues like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also result in pain in this area.

Treatment
For immediate relief consider:

  • Rest: Taking breaks from activities that worsen the pain.
  • Ice Application: Using ice on the affected area can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Opting for well-fitted, cushioned shoes can alleviate pressure.
  • Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter options may provide additional relief.

If the pain continues, it’s important to consult with our experienced podiatrists at Podiatry Care Gawler. During your visit, we will evaluate your foot and may recommend Footwear Education, Biomechanical Assessment, Padding or Orthotics, Exercises, Physical Therapy, or Imaging Tests.

Growing Pains in Kids

Book An Appointment

What is it?
As a child’s foot continues to develop, it may be necessary to change shoe and sock size every few months to allow room for the feet to grow. Although foot problems result mainly from injury, deformity, illness, or hereditary factors, improper footwear can aggravate pre-existing conditions. Shoes or other footwear should never be handed down.

The feet of young children are often unstable because of muscle problems which make walking difficult or uncomfortable. A thorough examination by a podiatrist may detect an underlying defect or condition which may require immediate treatment or consultation with another specialist. The Australian Podiatry Association has long known of the high incidence of foot defects among the young, and recommends foot health examinations for school children on a regular basis.

Heel Pain & Flat Feet in Kids

Book An Appointment

What is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s Disease (calcaneal aphophysitis) is not really a disease, but more a repetitious strain injury. This is the most common cause of heel pain in children seen at Podiatry Care. Active children in football, soccer, basketball, netball and tennis with this type of foot pain often complain of pain in the region of the heel bone particularly after exercise. In severe cases, children will complain of pain during exercise as well. They may even struggle to walk when getting up from rest.

As far as heel pain causes are concerned, Sever’s disease is a frequent cause of heel pain in children, particularly in the very active child. It is most often seen in children between the ages of 8 to 15 years as the growth plate is not fully developed or calcified at this time.

What are the symptoms commonly seen with Sever’s disease?

The condition can be quite disabling and tends to affect those who are fairly busy with sporting activities but can occur in children who are mildly active as well. In the initial stages of the condition, most children displaying signs of Severs disease will tend to hobble or limp off the sports field or court and complain of sore heels near the end of activity.

As the condition progresses, children may complain of pain during activity and in severe cases prior to sporting activities. Some children may complain of what appears to be achilles heel pain or ankle heel pain, however, children usually complain of pain in the heel of the foot. Morning heel pain is rare in children but can occur in severe cases of Sever’s disease.

Kids heel pain can be very discouraging for active children but, early treatment by the right Podiatrist can resolve this type of foot pain in children very quickly.

What causes heel pain in children?

The cause of the heel pain in Severs disease is thought to be the tractional forces applied to the growth plate of the heel bone by the achilles tendon at the rear of the heel bone and the plantar fascia just beneath the heel bone. This pulling force by the achilles tendon on the growth plate is often aggravated by tight calf muscles and excessively pronated feet (i.e. feet that “roll in” too far).

Intoeing in Kids

Book An Appointment

Intoeing, often referred to as a “pigeon-toed” gait, is a common condition seen in young children, particularly those under four years old. It occurs when one or both feet point inward while walking or running. Although it usually doesn’t cause pain, severe cases may lead to tripping and coordination challenges.

Signs and Symptoms of Intoeing
If you notice your child has an intoeing gait, look for these signs:

  • One or both feet turning inward during movement.
  • Knees appearing turned in when standing or walking.
  • A curved or “banana” shape of the feet.
  • Clumsiness or frequent tripping while walking.

While many children experience no discomfort, in-toeing can sometimes lead to embarrassment, affecting their confidence and participation in activities.

Causes of Intoeing
Intoeing can result from various conditions, including:

  1. Metatarsus Adductus: This condition causes the front of the foot to curve inward, resulting in a “banana” shape that can lead to an intoeing gait.
  2. Internal Tibial Torsion: This occurs when the tibia (the bone in the lower leg) twists
    inward relative to the knee, potentially affecting one or both legs.
  3. Internal Femoral Torsion: This condition happens when the femur (thigh bone) turns inward relative to the hip joint, causing the knees and feet to point inward while walking.

Additional contributing factors may include:

  • Genetics
  • Poor postural habits
  • Muscle tightness
  • Low muscle tone
  • Previous injuries

Diagnosis
Diagnosing in-toeing is typically straightforward. At Podiatry Care Gawler, our paediatric podiatrists assess your child’s gait through a thorough physical examination. In some cases, we may use gait analysis technology to determine the underlying causes, enabling us to create an effective treatment plan.

Podiatry Treatment for Intoeing
Early intervention is crucial for children with in-toeing. Our experienced team at Podiatry Care Gawler experts in managing this condition. Treatment options may include:

  • Postural Correction
  • Children’s Orthotics
  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Most cases of in-toeing resolve naturally as children grow, but some may persist or worsen without intervention. Timely assessment and treatment are essential.

If you have concerns about your child’s gait or suspect in-toeing, consult our team at Podiatry Care Gawler. We are committed to providing the expert support your child needs to thrive. To schedule an appointment, please contact us online or call us on 08 8522 4717.

Ingrown Toenail

Book An Appointment

What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail presses into or grows into the surrounding skin. It most commonly affects the big toe, although other toes can also be involved. Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, redness and swelling around the nail edge. If the skin becomes broken, infection may also develop. Ingrown toenails can range from mild irritation to a recurring or painful problem that makes shoes, walking or sport uncomfortable. Early assessment can often help manage the problem before it becomes more severe.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons. Common contributing factors include cutting the nail too short or rounding the corners, pressure from tight or narrow footwear, repeated trauma to the toe, and the natural shape or curvature of the nail.

Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails because of the way the nail grows or the shape of the surrounding skin. Sweating, swelling and certain activities can also increase irritation around the nail edge.

In some cases, there is no single obvious cause. Assessment helps determine what is contributing to the problem and whether simple treatment, ongoing nail care or a minor nail procedure may be appropriate.

How is an Ingrown Toenail Treated?

Treatment depends on how painful or inflamed the toe is, whether infection is present, and whether the problem keeps returning.

For milder cases, treatment may include carefully clearing the painful nail edge, reducing pressure around the toe, advice on nail cutting and footwear, and monitoring the area while it settles.

If the ingrown toenail is recurrent, very painful, or does not improve with conservative care, a minor nail procedure may be considered. In many cases, only the troublesome side of the nail needs to be treated rather than removing the whole nail.

Your podiatrist will assess the toe and discuss the most appropriate option based on the nail, surrounding skin, circulation and relevant medical history.

Learn more about Ingrown Toenail Surgery 

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Consider booking an assessment if the toe is painful, swollen, repeatedly becoming inflamed, or if the ingrown nail keeps returning. Assessment is also important if there is discharge, increasing redness, worsening pain, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation or another condition that may affect healing.

A podiatry assessment can help determine whether conservative treatment is appropriate or whether a minor nail procedure should be considered.

Book an Ingrown Toenail Assessment 

Shin Splints

Book An Appointment

What is Shin Pain?

Shin pain is a very common complaint among athletes. Many people commonly refer to shin pain as “shin splints” but, regardless of what it’s called, pain generally occurs in one or more of three structures. These structures include:

  • Bone
    The leg bone may experience continuous stress resulting in possible stress fracture.
  • Muscles
    Can be “overused” causing swelling and pain.
  • Bony Lining
    This is called the tenoperiosteum. This is the point at which the muscles insert into the bone. The muscular insertions can become inflamed and painful.

What causes pain in the shin?

The podiatrist must first determine where the pain is coming from. This is done through a series of clinical tests. Sometimes x-rays or bone scans may be needed. Following diagnosis, appropriate treatment is then implemented.

One of the major causes of shin pain in all areas (bone, bony lining and muscles) is incorrect foot and leg alignment during walking and running. Incorrect positioning of the foot and leg leads to poor shock absorption and can result in increased stress on the bone.

Abnormal positioning of the feet and legs can also cause muscle fatigue and overuse resulting in inflammation of tendons. Other causes of shin pain include training errors, poor conditioning, incorrect footwear and training on hard surfaces.

Fungal Nails

Book An Appointment

What are fungal nails?

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail which often causes thickening and discoloration of the nail plate. Often callus (dead skin) is broken down and builds up beneath the nail plate. Sometimes the nail will even change shape. Of all fungal infections that occur on the body, nail infections are one of the most difficult to prevent and treat.

What causes it?

Onychomycosis is caused by an overgrowth of fungi which have a tendency to thrive and grow in all warm, moist places. The fungus usually commences growth at the end of the nail plate and continues to spread under the nail. Sometimes chalky, white plaques form on the nail surface and as the infection progresses yellowish, brownish discoloration may be seen. Cell damage by the fungus to the base of the nail can cause the nail to thicken and change shape.

Plantar Warts

Book An Appointment

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts, also called verrucae, are small skin growths caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly develop on the sole of the foot and may become uncomfortable when standing, walking or exercising.

Plantar warts can appear as a single lesion or in groups. They may have a rough surface with small dark dots and can sometimes be mistaken for corns or calluses. Because pressure from walking can push the wart inward, some plantar warts become painful, particularly when they occur over weight-bearing areas of the foot.

What Causes Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the skin through small breaks or areas of irritation and can then cause a wart to develop.

They can spread through direct skin contact or indirectly from contaminated surfaces. Walking barefoot in shared wet areas such as communal showers, pools and change rooms may increase exposure, but not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will develop a wart. Warts can also spread from one area of the foot to another, particularly if they are picked, scratched or irritated.

How Are Plantar Warts Treated?

Treatment depends on the size, number, location and duration of the wart, as well as whether it is causing pain or spreading.

Options may include:

  • reducing pressure over painful areas
  • topical wart treatments
  • debridement of thickened skin when appropriate
  • Swift microwave therapy
  • other treatment options depending on the individual case

Your podiatrist can assess the lesion, confirm whether it is a plantar wart and recommend the most suitable treatment approach.

When Should You See a Podiatrist for a Plantar Wart?

Consider seeing a podiatrist if the wart is painful, spreading, keeps returning, or is affecting walking, footwear or sport.

An assessment is also worthwhile if you are unsure whether the lesion is actually a wart, particularly if it has changed in appearance or has not responded to previous treatment.

Your podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and discuss suitable treatment options, including whether Swift microwave therapy may be appropriate.

Book a Plantar Wart Assessment 

 

Foot Corn & Callus

Book An Appointment

Corns and Calluses – What are they?

A callus is an area of dead skin production usually under the soles of the feet. These can also be seen on the palms of hands. Corns are very similar to calluses in that they are made up of the same material – keratin. Corns are formed when the pressure causing a callus is very localised. A corresponding dense core of dead skin forms in the centre of the callus as a result of very specific localised pressure.

There are four main types of corns encountered by podiatrists. These include:

  • Hard Corns
  • Soft Corns
  • Seed Corns
  • Neurovascular Corns

Corns and calluses are both simply an excessive build up of dead skin. Corns generally occur on parts of the skin subjected to excessive pressure or irritation. Consequently, corns and callous may be seen with poor fitting footwear including narrow or tight shoes. However, they may also be seen between toes, on top surface of toes or on the soles of the feet as a result of poor alignment of the bones of the feet.

What Causes Corns and Calluses?

There is only one cause – excessive pressure/or irritation. Podiatrists realise that this pressure may be the result of:

  • Ill fitting shoes & /or
  • Incorrect foot alignment during walking

Ankle & Knee Pain

Book An Appointment

What is it?

There are commonly two types of injuries which can cause knee pain:

  • Acute injuries eg. ligament tears
  • Overuse injuries

As podiatrists, we generally deal with the overuse type injuries.

What causes it?

Various factors can cause overuse injuries to the knee, including poor footwear, inappropriate training programs and inadequate training surfaces (eg. bitumen or soft sand).Another major cause is abnormal alignment of the foot and lower leg.

  • Flat Feet
    With flat or excessively pronated feet, the result is excessive internal rotation of the lower leg at the same time that the upper leg is rotating in the opposite direction due to forces produced during walking. The knee is the area that therefore must absorb these twisting forces, and thus injuries occur. Also, pronated feet result in a valgus, or ‘knock-knee’ position, which results in various muscles exerting their pull in incorrect directions.
  • High-arched feet
    High arched, or excessively supinated feet, do not allow the shock absorption needed during walking. The knee must therefore take too much force to absorb this shock, and this is when overuse injuries will occur.
  • Some common injuries
    Patellofemoral syndrome – with pronated feet the knees move into the ‘knock-kneed’ position. This causes the patellar tendon (which connects the muscles of the thigh to the lower leg via the knee cap/patella which acts as a pulley) to pull in the wrong direction. The patella thus runs over areas in the knee that it is not supposed to, and eventually this will result in injury and pain. The pain is often felt with bent-knee activity, like squatting and walking upstairs.
    Iliotibial band syndrome – the muscle which runs down the outside of the thigh, and which crosses the knee, is the iliotibial band. With excessive pronation, this muscle shortens over time and is therefore subject to pain and injury. Pain is felt on the outer edge of the knee joint.
    Osgood shlatters disease – this commonly affects teenagers, and is an inflammation of the growth plate of the tibia (lower leg bone), which is situated just below the kneecap.

Sports Injuries

Book An Appointment

Sports injuries can affect anyone, regardless of age or skill level. At Podiatry Care Gawler, our role as podiatrists is to help you prevent these injuries and, if they occur, to support your recovery with the right advice and treatment. We balance the need for rest and rehabilitation to get you back to your sport as quickly and safely as possible. Understanding how your feet cope with stress and repetitive strain is key to reducing the risk of injuries.
Common Sports Injuries in the Feet

  • Achilles Tendonitis – occurs when this tendon becomes damaged and inflamed, often due to repetitive stress from activities like running and dancing.
  • Heel Pain – can stem from various conditions including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, plantar heel bursitis, severs disease and osteoarthritis.
  • Stress Fractures – occur due to repetitive stress on the bones in the feet, often resulting from activities like running, jumping, or dancing. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that cause pain and discomfort.
  • Ankle Sprains – among the most common sports injuries, occurring when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch beyond their limits and tear.

Prevention and Treatment
At Podiatry Care Gawler, we focus on both prevention and effective treatment of sports injuries. Our podiatrists are equipped to develop personalized treatment plans that include:

  • Individualized exercise regimens
  • Footwear recommendations
  • Manual therapy techniques
  • Biomechanical assessments

Understanding your foot mechanics and implementing preventative strategies can significantly reduce the risk of injury, allowing you to enjoy your favorite sports safely.

Take control of your foot health today! If you’re experiencing sports injuries or want to prevent them, book an appointment online or call us at 08 8522 4717 to see how we can help you get back to your sport.

Flat Feet

Book An Appointment

What is it?

Flat feet is a term often used to describe feet that are hypermobile or roll in excessively. When your feet “roll in” excessively during stance, this gives the appearance that there is a loss of arch contour of the foot. This however is a misnomer… most feet when studied in the sitting position have an arch. Only during weight bearing do they collapse, hence these feet are said to be compensating for a particular condition and are displaying a movement called PRONATION – they are not really flat at all. The arch is present but, it collapses during weight bearing.

What causes flat feet?

There are many causes of abnormal pronation, the most common being:

  • Hypermobility is one of the most common causes. This is present in approximately 10% of the population.
  • Hereditary bony or soft tissue conditions within the foot that disrupt normal walking patterns. This causes the foot to “unlock” allowing the arch to fall closer to the ground.
  • Abnormal muscle length or weak muscles.
  • Abnormal leg rotations
  • Poor pelvic alignment causing leg length difference
  • Spinal conditions (e.g. Scoliosis)
  • Muscle spasticity (e.g. Cerebral Palsy)

The result of pronation can vary from patient to patient but it should be noted that this abnormal force on the body is a major contributor of a myriad of bony and soft tissue problems; often leading to pain!

When flat feet or pronation forces become excessive or abnormal, symptoms may occur in the following areas:

  • Feet (e.g. bunions, hammer toes, corns, calluses)
  • Heels (e.g. plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, heel pain, Sever’s disease)
  • Shins (e.g. shin splints, posterior tibial tendinopathy, PTTD)
  • Knees (e.g. patellofemoral syndrome, chondromalacia (runners knee), Osgood Schlatter’s disease
  • Thighs (e.g. Iliotibial band syndrome)
  • Hips (e.g. greater trochanter bursitis)
  • Upper and lower back (e.g. sciatica, disc protrusion)
  • Neck and head secondary to poor postural alignment which can occur with kyphosis.

Heel Pain & Heel Spurs

Book An Appointment

What is Heel Pain?

Heel pain is a common problem and can come from several different structures around the heel. Plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause, but Achilles tendonitis (also known as Achilles tendinopathy), heel pad irritation, bursitis, nerve irritation and other foot or lower-limb problems can also produce pain in this area.

The location and behaviour of the pain can provide useful clues. Pain underneath the heel that is worse with the first few steps may involve the plantar fascia, while pain at the back of the heel may be related to the Achilles tendon. Burning, tingling or shooting pain may suggest irritation of a nerve.

Heel spurs can sometimes be seen on X-rays, but the presence of a spur does not necessarily mean it is the source of the pain. A podiatry assessment helps identify the structures involved and the factors contributing to the symptoms before treatment is recommended.

What Causes Heel Pain?

Heel pain can develop when the tissues around the heel are exposed to more load than they are able to tolerate. This may happen after an increase in walking, running or sport, prolonged standing, a change in footwear, or changes in strength and flexibility through the foot and lower limb.

In plantar heel pain, the plantar fascia is commonly involved. Symptoms are often felt underneath the heel and may be worse with the first few steps after rest or after longer periods of activity.

A heel spur is a bony change that can develop over time and may be visible on an X-ray. However, many people with heel spurs have no pain, so treatment should focus on the clinical cause of the symptoms rather than the spur alone.

Other causes of heel pain can include Achilles tendon problems, heel pad irritation, bursitis, nerve irritation and, less commonly, stress injury or other medical conditions. The pattern of symptoms and a clinical assessment help determine the most likely cause.

What are common heel pain causes?

Heel pain often develops from a combination of loading, activity, footwear and individual foot or lower-limb factors. Common contributors can include:

  • a sudden increase in walking, running or sport
  • prolonged standing or time on hard surfaces
  • reduced calf or ankle flexibility
  • changes in footwear or wearing shoes that do not suit the activity
  • weakness or reduced capacity through the foot and lower limb
  • changes in body weight or activity levels
  • foot posture or movement patterns that increase stress through the heel
  • previous injury or a rapid return to activity

These factors do not affect everyone in the same way, which is why treatment should be based on the individual assessment rather than the presence of one single “cause.”

What is the best Heel Pain Treatment?

The best treatment for heel pain depends on what is causing the symptoms. Management should be based on the structures involved, how long the pain has been present, activity levels, footwear and any contributing foot or lower-limb factors.

Treatment may include:

  • activity modification to reduce aggravating load while keeping you moving where appropriate
  • calf, foot and lower-limb strengthening or mobility exercises
  • advice on footwear and temporary changes to shoes if required
  • taping or padding to reduce symptoms in selected cases
  • assessment of walking or running mechanics when relevant
  • orthotic therapy when there is a clear clinical indication
  • shockwave therapy for selected persistent heel pain conditions
  • a gradual return to walking, running or sport as symptoms improve

There is no single treatment that is right for everyone. Your podiatrist can identify the likely source of the heel pain and develop a management plan based on the assessment findings, your activity and your goals.

To address contributing factors and reduce the risk of recurrence

               Depending on the cause of the heel pain and the assessment findings, treatment may also include:

      • custom orthotics when there is a clear clinical indication
      • taping or padding for short-term symptom relief
      • extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for selected persistent heel pain conditions
      • foot mobilisation techniques where appropriate
      • night splints in selected cases, particularly when first-step pain is prominent
      • dry needling as an adjunct when relevant muscle or soft-tissue factors are contributing
      • further investigation or referral when symptoms are persistent, unusual or not responding as expected

Podiatry Care Gawler has a special interest in assessing and managing heel pain in adults and children. 

Heel pain holding you back? Contact us today 

Plantar Fasciitis

Book An Appointment

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of pain underneath the heel. It involves irritation and reduced load tolerance of the plantar fascia, the strong band of tissue that runs from the heel toward the front of the foot.

Pain is often most noticeable with the first few steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for a period of time. It may ease as you begin moving, then return after prolonged standing, walking, running or other activity.

Although heel spurs may sometimes be seen on X-rays, they are not necessarily the cause of the pain. Assessment is aimed at confirming whether the plantar fascia is involved and identifying the factors contributing to the symptoms.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis usually develops when the plantar fascia is exposed to more load than it can comfortably tolerate. This can happen gradually or after a change in activity, footwear, training or time spent standing and walking.

Common contributing factors can include reduced calf or ankle flexibility, changes in foot and lower-limb strength, a sudden increase in walking or running, prolonged standing, changes in body weight, previous injury, and footwear that does not suit the activity.

The condition is not always caused by one single factor. Assessment helps identify which factors are most relevant for the individual so treatment can be targeted appropriately.

What Does Plantar Fasciitis Feel Like?

Plantar fasciitis commonly causes pain underneath the heel or along the inner side of the heel. Symptoms can vary from a mild ache to sharper pain that affects walking or activity.

Common features can include:

  • pain with the first few steps after getting out of bed
  • pain after sitting or resting for a period of time
  • discomfort after prolonged standing or walking
  • pain that increases after running, sport or a change in activity
  • tenderness underneath or toward the inner side of the heel

Symptoms can overlap with other causes of heel pain, so an assessment is useful when pain is persistent, worsening or limiting normal activity.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on how long the symptoms have been present, how much they are affecting activity, and which contributing factors are identified during assessment.

Management may include:

  • activity modification to reduce aggravating load while keeping you moving where appropriate
  • calf, foot and lower-limb strengthening or mobility exercises
  • footwear advice and temporary changes to shoes if needed
  • taping or padding for short-term symptom relief
  • orthotic therapy when there is a clear clinical indication
  • shockwave therapy for selected persistent cases
  • a gradual return to walking, running or sport as symptoms improve

Treatment is usually most effective when it is matched to the individual rather than relying on one single approach. Your podiatrist can assess the likely contributing factors and develop a plan based on your symptoms, activity and goals.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Consider booking an assessment if your heel pain is persistent, keeps returning, is getting worse, or is limiting walking, work, exercise or sport. It is also worth being assessed if the pain is severe, there is swelling, numbness or tingling, or the symptoms do not match the typical pattern of plantar fasciitis. A podiatry assessment can help confirm the likely cause, identify contributing factors and guide a treatment plan that suits your activity and goals.

Heel pain not settling? Book a plantar fasciitis assessment today

Achilles Tendonitis

Book An Appointment

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is a common term used for pain affecting the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. The condition is now often referred to as Achilles tendinopathy, particularly when symptoms have been present for some time.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is exposed to high loads during walking, running and jumping. Pain may develop in the middle portion of the tendon or closer to where the tendon attaches to the heel.

Symptoms can include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle, tenderness, swelling or thickening of the tendon. Pain may be worse when first getting up, during activity, or after an increase in walking, running or sport.

Assessment helps determine which part of the Achilles tendon is involved and whether other factors are contributing to the symptoms.

What Causes Achilles Tendon Pain?

Achilles tendon pain usually develops when the tendon is exposed to more load than it can tolerate. This can happen gradually or after a sudden increase in walking, running, jumping or sport.

Common contributing factors can include:

  • a rapid increase in training volume or intensity
  • hill running, speed work or repeated jumping
  • reduced calf strength or ankle flexibility
  • changes in footwear or training surface
  • returning to activity too quickly after a break or injury
  • changes in lower-limb strength or movement patterns

Achilles tendinopathy is usually influenced by a combination of factors rather than one single cause. Assessment helps identify which factors are most relevant so treatment can be targeted appropriately.

How is Achilles Tendinopathy Treated?

Treatment depends on where the tendon is painful, how long symptoms have been present, activity levels and the factors identified during assessment.

Management may include:

  • temporary modification of aggravating activity while keeping the tendon moving where appropriate
  • progressive calf and Achilles strengthening exercises
  • mobility work when ankle movement is restricted
  • footwear advice and temporary heel lifts in selected cases
  • taping or other short-term symptom-relief strategies
  • orthotic therapy when there is a clear clinical indication
  • shockwave therapy for selected persistent cases
  • a gradual return to walking, running or sport as tendon capacity improves

Achilles tendinopathy usually responds best to a progressive loading program rather than complete rest. Treatment should be adjusted to the individual, particularly when symptoms are insertional or have been present for a long time.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Consider an assessment if Achilles pain keeps returning, is getting worse, or is limiting walking, work, exercise or sport. Assessment is also worthwhile if there is persistent swelling or thickening of the tendon, significant morning stiffness, or symptoms that are not improving despite reducing aggravating activity. A podiatry assessment can help determine which part of the tendon is involved, identify contributing factors and guide an appropriate rehabilitation plan.

Book an Achilles Assessment →

Know Someone Who Needs Our Help?

If you'd like to refer someone to our clinic, you can complete this form and we'll be in contact with them to help arrange an appointment.
Refer A Client
Scroll to Top